Kia Novo concept previews next Cerato

The Kia Novo concept is the latest in a long line of show-stopping concept cars from the Korean manufacturer.

This one, revealed today at the 2015 Seoul motor show, is a fastback-style sedan based on its global C-segment (small car) platform that “provides a glimpse into Kia’s plans for its future compact car line-up”.

In other words, Kia apparently wants to tell us that the next Cerato range will take its cues from what you see here, both inside and out.

The Novo — derived from the rough Latin word for ‘make new’ — has a coupe-like silhouette with short front overhangs, clean yet hard-edged character lines and a prominent pinched grille, in line with the company’s signature.

This grille is also flanked by slim laser headlights, a company first. Expect these to trickle into production models soon, unlike the Novo’s rear-hinged back doors. Those are show specials, we would suggest.

Meanwhile the four-seat cabin could rightly be described as minimalist.

There’s a tricky 3D hologram display in place of a conventional instrument display and a Lexus-style touch pad next to the steering wheel that includes a finger scanner that automatically sets the car to your pre-logged preferences, inareas such as playlists and volume.

It may be hard to spot in the provided images, but apparently there is a wide touchscreen in the centre of the dash. The steering wheel rocks a few prominent buttons. The whole appearance is very Germanic.

Under the bonnet is Kia’s 1.6-litre turbo engine — which is in the Pro_Cee’d GT and the all-new US-market Optima — matched to its seven-speed DCT dual-clutch auto. The concept is front-wheel drive.

There are also ‘adaptive concave profile’ tyres that have a sunken middle section between two contact points that apparently cools the rubber and channels excess road water away from the wheels for greater grip.

The unique 20-inch tyres feature two slim contact points on the outer edges to provide lower rolling resistance and reduce road noise, while providing a high level of grip. Nifty.

Click the Photos tab to see a full image gallery. Show floor pictures taken by Paul Maric.